By Saidu Jalloh, Reporter D.S
The Government of Sierra Leone has joined forces with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to transform the nation’s agricultural landscape and address food insecurity challenges. This strategic collaboration aims to revamp Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector by enhancing research partnerships, adopting innovative agricultural technologies, and mobilizing resources to promote sustainable food production.
During a recent visit, President Julius Maada Bio emphasized the strong collaboration between the Government of Sierra Leone and IITA/CGIAR, particularly in advancing agricultural transformation through the Feed Salone program. The President’s visit underscores a commitment to strengthening ties between Sierra Leone and Nigeria while fostering regional agricultural cooperation and expanding business opportunities across various value chains, including cassava, yam, banana/plantain, and rice.
President Bio acknowledged IITA’s dedicated efforts in driving agricultural transformation across Africa and praised the organization as a reliable partner. “I am here because I believe the political will exists in Sierra Leone to support the country’s food system transformation,” he stated.
The President further emphasized the complexity of food security, describing it as a systemic challenge that necessitates coordinated actions across multiple sectors and robust political will at the highest levels to achieve sustainable solutions. “I firmly believe that research, innovation, and technology are the forces we must harness to drive Africa forward,” he asserted, highlighting the importance of transformative approaches to agricultural development.
He called for stronger partnerships, strategic investments, and the swift adoption of innovative solutions, noting that these elements are crucial not only for the success of individual nations but also for the advancement of the entire continent.
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